Wilderness Chitabe’s location places it at the heart of a complex and beautiful mosaic of habitats, and this diversity results in Wilderness Chitabe being one of the most storied of all Botswana’s areas. Experienced, passionate guides are inspired by the intricate and dynamic landscapes to deliver wildlife experiences few other locations can match.
Eight elevated, meru-style guest tents provide the perfect human habitat, while a stroll along the elevated walkways connecting them to the main area is a safari experience in itself. Day and night drives, and guided walks, showcase the varied wildlife and landscapes of the Okavango.
Beyond the impressive wildlife encounters, guests can look forward to an elevated culinary journey which highlights the flavours of the Delta. The camp’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its eco-conscious design to its light “food-print” and operational ethos, with solar power, sustainable cooling systems, and conservation initiatives woven into its daily operations.
INSIDER'S TIP: Learn more about the African wild dog packs of the area; if you’re lucky you’ll see some of these endangered carnivores.
Set on a beautiful tree island on a private concession, Wilderness Chitabe offers an exceptional blend of creativity and comfort, perfectly suited to the extreme temperature swings of the Okavango Delta: spacious tents feature innovative cooling systems, and offer sweeping views across the floodplains. Interiors draw from organic textures and earthy tones, while the guiding – as ever – is world-class.
Each tent has been individually curated to enhance the tent experience, the suites feature insulated canvas walls and roofs, creating a “coolbox” environment that maintains a light, airy feel. Stretch tents overhead provide shade while adding elegant, sweeping lines to the architecture. Thoughtful lighting enhances the ambiance throughout the day, while aged brass, wood, and textured wallpaper in the bathrooms add to the organic aesthetic. The spacious interiors have high ceilings, twin beds with en-suite facilities comprising indoor/outdoor showers, large insect-proof mesh openings, and private shaded decks opening to horizon-wide Delta views.
The personalised touch and impeccably styled tented accommodation is strongly influenced by Helene and Dave Hamman, whose renowned photographic artwork of African wild dogs, and big cats adorns the walls. Wilderness Chitabe’s warm, generous and loyal staff complete the perfect guest experience.
Bar, Library, Pool
Electrical Outlets, Fan, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Safe, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Credit Card Facilities, Private Vehicle (Available)
Bird Watching, Game Drives, Night Drives, Walks (Guided)
Cultural Tours, Helicopter Scenic Flights
Game drives reveal the rich wildlife of the area, from predators to their prey. Diverse habitats characterised by acacia and mopane woodland in the east, and typical Okavango habitats in the west: palm-dotted floodplains, wooded islands, tranquil waterways and dry woodland – make this a wildlife experience few other locations can match. Key mammal species include giraffes, buffalos, lechwe, tsessebe, elephants, lions, leopards, spotted hyaenas, cheetahs, and African wild dogs.
Wilderness Chitabe’s guides – masters of their craft, many with over two decades of experience in this area – read the land like a well-worn map. They don’t just track predators; they anticipate their every move. They don’t just drive; they navigate the Delta’s tangled paths with instinct and precision. Every game drive, every golden-hour sighting is shaped by years of deep respect for the land and its wildlife. The game is relaxed, at ease in the presence of vehicles – an unspoken testament to the guides’ respect, patience, and years of ethical wildlife viewing.
Many of Wilderness Chitabe’s guides are enthusiastic photographers. They are trained not only to offer wildlife photography advice, but to interpret wildlife and put guests in the best position to make the most of their photographic safari.
Afternoon to evening drives provide opportunities for you to see nocturnal mammals such as civets, genets, and bushbabies; as well as owls and perhaps leopard.
Every game drive, every golden-hour sighting is shaped by years of deep respect for the land and its wildlife. The game is relaxed, at ease in the presence of vehicles – an unspoken testament to the guides’ respect, patience, and years of ethical wildlife viewing.
Walking safaris with skilled guides offer you the exciting opportunity to come across wildlife on foot, as well as observing the small wonders you might miss when travelling by vehicle.
The birdlife is excellent and varies throughout the year, depending on water levels and season. Species include African hawk-eagle, ground hornbill, scarlet-chested sunbird, red-billed hornbill, gabar goshawk and red-billed francolin.
Wilderness Chitabe is part of an internationally recognised IBA – Important Birding and Biodiversity Area – making birdwatching a very rewarding activity.
Wilderness is committed to combating climate change by implementing various sustainable energy solutions. One of these is reducing dependence on fossil fuels, with the aim of being carbon neutral. Take a tour "back of house" to see the solar operation in action, and uncover more about our eco-friendly practices.